Domination of cyber space increasingly important: PM Modi to top military commanders

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday saw a "rare" possibility of a full scale war but said that "force" will influence behavior of others as he asked the armed forces to be ready for "invisible" enemy and challenges which will be "less predictable" in a changing world.

In his first interaction collectively with top commanders of the three defence services, he emphasized that an atmosphere of peace and security was essential to enable India to achieve its goals of economic development and that his government has focused on creating a favourable external environment and on strengthening India's security.

Outlining his strategic vision, he observed that in addition to the familiar challenges, India has to be prepared for a changing world, which demanded new thinking on our part with regard to economic, diplomatic and security policies.

"Full scale wars may become rare, but force will remain an instrument of deterrence and influencing behavior, and the duration of conflicts will be shorter," he said.

His observation came against the backdrop of recent escalation of cross-border firing and shelling by Pakistan on the Line of Control and International Border as well as Chinese incursions in Ladakh.

"Beyond the immediate, we are facing a future where security challenges will be less predictable; situations will evolve and change swiftly; and, technological changes will make responses more difficult to keep pace with," Modi said, adding, "The threats may be known, but the enemy may be invisible."

Modi underlined that domination of cyber space will become increasingly important and control of space may become as critical as that of land, air and sea.

Feeling the need for transforming India's defence forces, he assured them of his commitment to provide adequate resources to ensure full defence preparedness, overcome shortages and meet modernization needs.

"We should remember that what matters is capability of the force," he said.

Prime Minister said that India's Armed Forces, which represent the world's largest democracy, were second to none in professionalism, valour, commitment, service and duty.

The Prime Minister also thanked the Armed Forces for their work in relief operations after Kashmir floods and Cyclone Hudhud.

Modi assured the Commanders that he would do everything to fulfill the promises made on 'One-Rank One-Pension, improving service conditions, and creating better safety nets and opportunities for services after retirement.

He said India's Armed Forces, which represent the world's largest democracy, were second to none in professionalism, valour, commitment, service and duty.

The armed forces have always vindicated the faith and confidence that people of India placed in them, whether it is for our nation's security or for relief in times of natural calamities, he said.

Modi thanked the Armed Forces for their extraordinary service to the people during the floods in Jammu and Kashmir and the cyclone on the East Coast.

He paid tribute to the tradition and training that inculcated the highest ideals and professional capabilities in our Armed Forces. The nations trust was the biggest strength of our Armed Forces', he said.